Group bats for 'blue economy' to help address West Philippine Sea issue

MANILA, Philippines — Pursuing a blue economy in the country is expected to not just boost economic growth but also address the issues hounding the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

The Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM) said the concept of the blue economy will provide a broader framework for the country.

“Blue economy” refers to the integrated, holistic, cross-sectoral and cross-stakeholder approach for the sustainable, resilient and inclusive use, governance, management and conservation of oceans, seas, marine and coastal resources and ecosystems for economic growth.

The Blue Economy Bill, which is included in the administration's priority legislative agenda, aims to promote stewardship and sustainable development of marine wealth within the maritime domains of the Philippines, including its exclusive economic zone.

PRRM president Edicio dela Torre argued that the country’s land area is merely 300,000 square kilometers while the exclusive economic zone stretches across 2.2 million square kilometers.

“Therefore, we need not delve into topics like global trade and our seafarers when discussing the concept of the blue economy. The concept of a blue economy addresses the entire issue,” Dela Torre said.

The bill targets to institutionalize the crafting of a comprehensive framework for the sustainable development of marine and coastal resources and strengthen inter-agency, cross-sectoral and multi-stakeholder coordination.

It will also promote cross-sector engagement, putting value into the local and indigenous knowledge systems of small fisherfolk.

“Sustainability will not be achieved if it doesn't also enhance the income and livelihood of people. We should transcend what may seem abstract, focusing not just on rights but also on livelihood — the source of life and sustenance for our citizens,” Dela Torre said.

He added that there are specific species in the West Philippine Sea or in the exclusive economic zone that could potentially be special, medicinal or pharmaceutical substances.

“The blue economy is so vast that if you can't defend the West Philippine Sea, you can't develop it,” Dela Torre said.

“The hot issue now is the West Philippine Sea. If we